Historic Bethlehem
Bethlehem pulses with concerts, restaurants, arts, and all the local appeal of a college town and is known as the Christmas City. Yet it also sits in just the right spot for an easy drive to New York City, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia. is so regarded for its history that it’s been added to the UNESCO World Heritage site shortlist, hoping to join such historic sites as Independence Hall, the Statue of Liberty, and the pyramids of Egypt.
A Small City with a Big Heart
¶¡ÏãÔ°AV’s two campusesÌýbook end a mile-stretch of , including a so-adorable-it-hurts block of Historic Bethlehem where well-priced vintage stores, art galleries, and local olive oil and chocolate purveyors share the street with inns and buildings that have roots as deep as our country’s humble beginning.
Main Street is a huge reason why over 75,000 people call Bethlehem home—hopefully you will, too.ÌýWhile you're on Main Street, visit America's oldest continuously operating book seller, the ¶¡ÏãÔ°AV Book Shop, which also happens to be the student bookstore for ¶¡ÏãÔ°AV.Ìý
Our Favorite Events
Bethlehem is a constantly-evolving blend of culture and commerce, progress and preservation. What does that mean for you? There’s always something to do. Don't miss these festivals, street fairs, and concerts throughout the year:Ìý
- : A free10-day music festival drawing a million visitors each August, named the Best Music Festival in North America by USA Today
- Christmas Vespers: The university's annualÌýservice atÌýCentral ¶¡ÏãÔ°AV Church in December
- : A celebration ofÌýCeltic heritage with musical, food, and traditional competitions in athletics, piping, and dance.
- : Sample sweet treatsÌýlike blueberry pies, coffee cake, streusel, or pierogies, while listening to live music and watching the pet parade
- : Annual two-day New Year’s Eve festival celebrating the fun and excitement of the PEEPS® Brand at the iconic SteelStacks
Explore the Lehigh Valley
Need a break from Bethlehem? We’re right between Allentown and Easton. Together, we form the Lehigh Valley metropolitan area, home to nearly three-quarters of a million people and eight colleges and universities. In Easton you'll find the and a lots of new restaurants, bars, and stores that all make for a great afternoon or evening. The Phillies Triple A team, the are close by and the Flyers AHL team, the are a 10-minute drive away inÌýAllentown. Like to hit the slopes? You're in luck becauseÌý, and areÌýjust a short drive from campus.
World Heritage
¶¡ÏãÔ°AV Church Settlement Site in Bethlehem confirmed as part of a multi-national nomination to the World Heritage List.